Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of Alhambra, CA’s most harshly punished traffic violations. Drivers accused of a DUI can face a criminal trial and a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), leading to a tough legal battle that should be fought with the help of an Alhambra DUI lawyer.
You can increase the odds of beating the DUI charges you are facing by reaching out to a team of professional Alhambra criminal defense lawyers. The Simmrin Law Group has experience handling DUI cases, and we’re ready to start working on your defense today.
Legal Codes Surrounding DUI Charges in Alhambra
Alhambra’s court system uses several legal codes to prosecute individuals accused of driving under the influence. You may be charged with a DUI for getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or using certain controlled substances, including prescription medications. Any substance impairing your ability to operate a vehicle safely can lead to DUI charges in Alhambra.
If you are arrested for drunk driving, your blood alcohol content (BAC) must generally be above 0.08 percent. However, you can face charges if your BAC is as low as 0.01 percent if you are under 21. Additionally, commercial drivers must keep their BAC below 0.04%.
You should also be aware that DUI charges are considered prior offenses in Alhambra. If you are convicted, that conviction will count against you if you are arrested for a subsequent DUI. Individuals who have more than 1 DUI conviction will face increased penalties. Speak to an Alhambra criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after being charged with DUI in California.
For a free legal consultation with a dui lawyer serving Alhambra, call (310) 896-2723
Understanding Alhambra DUI Traffic Stops
You may be charged with a DUI after an accident, or a police officer pulls you over. A police officer may ask you to:
- Complete a chemical test
- Complete field sobriety tests
Some drivers are technically allowed to refuse these tests. However, you must comply with the tests if:
- You are legally arrested
- You are under 21
- You are on DUI probation
You can face criminal charges if you refuse a legally required test, so caution is recommended when facing a DUI traffic stop. You should contact a criminal defense lawyer in Alhambra as quickly as possible to protect yourself from these charges.
Alhambra DUI Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Go Over the Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Alhambra
DUI convictions can have several serious repercussions. These penalties grow more severe each time you are convicted of driving under the influence. Depending on your situation, you could be subjected to:
DUI Fines:
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to $2,000
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to $2,500
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to $3,000
DUI Jail Time:
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to 6 Months
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
DUI License Suspension:
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to 2 Years
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to 3 Years
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can suspend your license after a DUI charge, even if you beat the criminal charges you are facing. You must request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days of your arrest.
Increased Auto Insurance Rates
When you are convicted of a DUI in Alhambra, you can also expect to be required to complete an SR – 22 insurance form. Here, you can expect your insurance rates to be dramatically increased due to your DUI conviction.
Generally, those who are required to submit SR – 22 insurance forms will need to do so for an actual three years. In some instances, this can increase the amount of your auto insurance so much that you can no longer afford the costs. If you cannot afford to insure your car, it may be difficult or impossible for you to continue providing for yourself and your family.
Completion Of a Drug or Alcohol Treatment Program
As part of the DUI sentencing you receive, the court also has the authority to order that you complete a drug or alcohol treatment program. You may be able to participate in an inpatient or outpatient program based on the specific details of your case and whether you have prior DUI convictions on your record.
Those who complete the terms of their alcohol or drug treatment program may have the opportunity to get the charges against them reduced or dismissed entirely.
Ignition Interlock Devices (IID)
You may be able to avoid a license suspension by accepting an ignition interlock device (IID) restricted license. Cars with an IID will not start if your BAC is too high. You can contact a DUI attorney in Alhambra to learn more about your legal options after an arrest.
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Get Professional Help Handling Alhambra DUI Charges Now
Trying to beat a DUI charge alone can give prosecutors exactly what they want. You can boost your odds of successfully resolving your case by reaching out to an Alhambra DUI attorney. The Simmrin Law Group can:
- Investigate your case
- Work to get evidence thrown out
- Focus on getting your case dismissed
Depending on the facts surrounding your case, you may be able to secure a fair plea bargain. Our team can also fight hard for you in court and during your DMV hearing.
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How a DUI Conviction in Alhambra Can Change Your Life
Should you decide to represent yourself in a DUI case, you run the risk of losing your freedom in many different ways. A DUI conviction in Alhambra can lead to a lot of changes in your life, including the following:
- The inability to find employment
- Difficulty keeping friends and family members in your life
- Difficulty renting an apartment
- Having to rely on others for transportation or constantly having to use public transportation
The sooner you speak to an experienced DUI lawyer in Alhambra, the sooner you can build a defense against the DUI charges. Put your trust in the Simmrin Law Group to fight on your behalf in an effort to have the charges reduced or dropped.
An Alhambra DUI Lawyer Can Help You
DUI charges can have a lasting impact on your life. You can immediately increase your chances of beating the charges against you by contacting a DUI lawyer in Alhambra. The Simmrin Law Group can prepare your defense today, beginning with a free consultation about your specific case.
Start focusing on your future by completing our online contact form or calling to get the legal answers you need now. Call an experienced Alhambra DUI lawyer today to learn how you can fight the charges levied against you.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form